Olga-Elpis Kolokitha

The Role of Orthodontics in the Comprehensive Management of Dental Patients

Orthodontics plays a fundamental role in the interdisciplinary management of dental patients and contributes significantly to the improvement of oral function, periodontal health, prosthetic rehabilitation, and overall facial aesthetics.

This lecture highlights the importance of integrating orthodontic treatment into comprehensive dental care, emphasizing its collaboration with differenf dental specialties. Orthodontic intervention can facilitate restorative procedures, improve implant site conditions, and enhance long-term stability of dental treatments.

Furthermore, advances in digital technology, including 3D imaging and artificial intelligence, have transformed diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient communication, enabling more precise and individualized care.

Special consideration is given to adult and medically compromised patients, where interdisciplinary coordination becomes critical for successful outcomes.

In conclusion, orthodontics is an essential component of modern dentistry, contributing not only to aesthetics but also to functional rehabilitation and overall oral health. A multidisciplinary approach ensures optimal treatment results and improved patient quality of life.

Olga-Elpis Kolokitha, DDS, MSD, PhD

Dr. Olga-Elpis Kolokitha is a Professor and the Head of the Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry School of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. She is also the Director of the Postgraduate Program in Orthodontics of the same department. She received her Dental Degree (DDS) at the University of Thessaloniki, Greece in 1991. She attended the postgraduate orthodontic program at Temple University, USA. She received her Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and Master of Dental Sciences (MSD), at Temple University, USA. She took the Tweed Course from the Tweed Foundation for Orthodontic Research in Tuscon, Arizona, USA. She obtained her PhD at the University of Thessaloniki, Greece in 2002. She has obtained a Mastership in Laser Therapy in Dentistry from the Aachen Dental Laser Center (AALZ) and RWTH International Academy in 2021.

She has published many scientific papers in Greek and international scientific journals. She has authored a Research Monograph as well as book chapters.

She has also given many lectures, webinars and presentations nationally and internationally on different topics in orthodontics.

She is a member of the Editorial Board of several scientific journals and is a scientific reviewer of many reputable scientific journals.

She served as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Orthodontic Society of Greece and the Orthodontic Society of Northern Greece. She was an elected representative of the Thessaloniki Dental Association at the General Assembly of the Hellenic Dental Federation.

She has maintained a private orthodontic practice in Thessaloniki since 1995.